Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of joint inflammation (arthritis)
that is long-lasting (chronic) and most often affects the spine. Ankylosing
spondylitis commonly causes pain and stiffness, with swelling and limited
motion in the low back, middle back, neck, hips, chest wall, and heels.
Ankylosing spondylitis is a specific disease within a family of
diseases called spondyloarthropathies. The cause of the disease is not known.
In severe cases the affected joints in the spine fuse together, causing severe
stiffness in the back. Other joints can be stiff and painful, including those
in the shoulders, wrists, hands, knees, ankles, and feet. Complications of
ankylosing spondylitis may include inflammation of the colored part of the eye
(iris), called iritis, or difficulty breathing due to curving of the upper body
and stiffening of the chest wall. Inflammation from the condition may also
affect the heart valves.
Ankylosing spondylitis usually affects people younger than 30 and
can run in families. It is more common in men than in women.
Although there is no cure, treatment can usually control symptoms
and prevent the condition from getting worse. Most people are able to continue
to work and do normal daily activities.
